Lift Chair Tips and Resources

Lift chairs in limited spaces—If space is an issue in the home, consider a wall hugger lift chair. Wall huggers can be as little as 4″ from the wall. When reclining, standard lift chairs recline backward and the footrest extends out the front so a certain amount of clearance is required in the back and front of the chair. Wall huggers start from the wall, and as they recline, the front of the chair slides outwards. Only two-position and three-position lift chairs are available as wall huggers.

Heavy duty lift chairs—There is a wide selection of heavy duty lift chairs available for those who need them. Weight capacities for these chairs start at 500 lb. and go up to 700 lb. Seats for these models tend to also be wider than standard lift chairs.

Custom upholstery—Some manufacturers will upholster the lift chair with your own material so it blends seamlessly with your existing décor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lift Chairs

Are lift chairs covered under Medicare (in the U.S.)?

The lift chair itself is not covered under Medicare; only the lift mechanism is covered. Among the conditions that need to be fulfilled for eligibility, you must have severe arthritis in your hips or knees or a severe neuromuscular disease. The lift chair must also be prescribed by a doctor. The sum that you are reimbursed varies from state to state, so it’s a good idea to speak to your local dealer. They can help find out if you are eligible for Medicare or any other available funding programs.

I’m left-handed; can hand controls be placed on the left hand side?

This would not be a problem for most chairs but for some models, the controls can’t be switched. This is a good question to ask your local lift chair dealer before you buy.

What are “split chaise pads” and “full chaise pads”?

Split chaise pad—There is a gap between the front edge of the seat and footrest. A piece of fabric normally drapes from under the footrest to under the seat so the mechanics of the footrest are hidden.

Full chaise pad—There is only one continuous piece of seat foam that extends from the back of the chair, over the top of the seat and all the way down to the front of the footrest. This provides more comfort and support when the footrest is raised.

How do I know which lift chair is right for me?

The best way to know which lift chair is right for you is to visit a local dealer and try them out. Call your local home healthcare equipment provider before you visit to make sure they have working lift chairs in their showroom for you to test.

WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE SAYING

Thank you so much for your follow up with me. I did indeed receive information from your local affiliate in PA. They enclosed information and brochures, also enclosed a map of how to find them, or they would come to us. I certainly appreciate your help in this matter. The service you provide is the best. We can't thank you enough.

Mona M.

Cresaptown, Maryland

Yes, I had an excellent response from Mike in Ohio. He made extra efforts to reach me by phone to respond to my questions. I am in California, we finally found email the best way to communicate, and he was thorough and helpful in his answers. Then he mailed brochures. Then he called to make sure I got the brochures. So, I can say Mike is excellent in providing service and assistance and I really appreciate his promptness. I emailed another company on my own - not part of SILVER CROSS- and it took them more than a week to call me back.